Police arrested seven people in Kaikohe yesterday during an operation to target gangs in the town.
The operation was held after a confrontation between rival gangs in the town on Saturday (May 9) afternoon.
The brawl occurred in front of members of the public including children, some of whom were distressed at what they were witnessing.
Two brave Kaikohe residents intervened to stop the confrontation. The incident lasted about 12 minutes and was captured by security cameras.
About 30 police from across Northland took part in search warrants during yesterday’s operation.
Twelve addresses were searched and those arrested ranged in age from teenagers to people in their mid-30s.
They will be facing charges of rioting, possession of offensive weapons and some will be facing a charge of participation in an organised criminal group.
During the warrants a number of weapons were seized including chains, clubs, hammers, knives and screwdrivers. Police also located some cannabis, methamphetamine, utensils used for drugs at some addresses, a car and several thousand dollars in cash.
Child, Youth and Family were involved in the operation to assist with any children of those who were arrested. The children will be placed with responsible family members or in CYF care.
Northland Police Inspector Al Symonds said the Police and the residents of Kaikohe have had enough of the gangs and their “thuggish” behaviour.
“The people of Kaikohe deserve a lot better than this.”
Mr Symonds said a number of weapons were used in the confrontation, which meant there was the potential for someone to end up dead or seriously injured.
Mr Symonds said the confrontation was caught on CCTV cameras, so if these gangs continued to behave like thugs in public, police would identify them, hunt them down and hold them accountable.
He asked anyone with information about gangs, drug dealing or other crime to call police or, if they wanted to remain anonymous, the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.
For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 945 4650 or 021 192 1099.